Manchester City and Salford City are set to renew their FA Cup rivalry in the fourth round this weekend, marking their second consecutive meeting in the competition. The match, scheduled for 3pm on Saturday, falls under the UK's broadcasting "blackout," meaning it will not be televised live on any domestic channel. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how fans can follow the action through alternative means.
Broadcasting Restrictions and Kick-Off Time
The fixture kicks off at 3pm on Saturday, a time slot traditionally subject to the UK's broadcasting blackout, which prohibits live television coverage to protect lower-league attendances. As a result, neither the BBC nor TNT Sports, the primary FA Cup broadcasters, will air this match live, having selected other games for their weekend schedules.
Radio and Audio Coverage Options
For local listeners, BBC Radio Manchester will offer dedicated live radio commentary, accessible via traditional frequencies or the BBC Sounds app. Nationally, BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT will provide regular updates and live reports from the Etihad Stadium, with both stations available online for broader access.
Digital and Club-Specific Platforms
Manchester City supporters can utilise the Official Man City App and website, which feature a Matchday Centre with live text updates, statistics, and integrated radio commentary for City+ or Recast subscribers. This digital service offers the most detailed way for fans to track the match without a video feed.
Salford City fans, known as the Ammies, can purchase an audio match pass through the official SCFC TV service on the club's website. This subscription-based commentary feed is available to supporters both in the UK and internationally.
Highlights and Post-Match Coverage
Highlights of the match will be featured on BBC One during its coverage of the Aston Villa vs Newcastle game at 5.30pm. More comprehensive highlights will be broadcast on Match of the Day from 10.55pm. Additionally, highlights will be available shortly after the final whistle on the BBC Sport and TNT Sports websites, as well as on the FA's social media channels.
International Viewing Information
For those travelling abroad, the match may be broadcast on various local networks depending on regional FA Cup broadcast partners. In the United States, for example, ESPN Deportes will provide coverage, ensuring international fans can watch the game live.
Background and Previous Encounter
This FA Cup tie sees Manchester City, a Premier League giant, face Salford City, a club co-owned by members of Manchester United's 'Class of 92'. The two teams met in the third round last season, with Manchester City securing an emphatic 8-0 victory in January 2025. This rematch adds an extra layer of intrigue, given the historical connections and the competitive nature of cup football.
In summary, while the Manchester City vs Salford City FA Cup match will not be televised live in the UK due to the broadcasting blackout, fans have multiple options to stay connected. From radio commentary and digital platforms to highlights and international broadcasts, there are ample ways to follow this exciting cup clash.
